Niels Vejlyt is known for his work with with the symphonic power metal outfit Infinity Overture, but is also active as a solo artists and as a guitar instructor (he has published a number of instructional books and DVDs on guitar playing). So this is obviously a guy who knows his way around the fretboard.
Now Sthenic is the next album in a long line of instrumental releases by talented guitarists who showcase their abilities.
And, although I am an avid lover of guitar solos, I am a bit ambivalent when it comes to such instrumental releases by guitarists. I often find myself in total awe of their skills and technique, but, at the same time, they often come across terribly egocentric and all the over-the-top shredding just becomes too much. And on some releases, while the guitar is given its rightful place in the spotlight, the rest of the instrumentation is a schlep of simple cheap midi-like programmed drums patterns and bass lines, and the rhythm guitar – if there is any – is kept at a minimal level of action.
Fortunately, this does not apply to Sthenic.
There is the shredding, the sweeping, the tapping, the neoclassicisms and all that, but Vejlyt also knows the power of simplicity and the magic of melody, and, in addition to all the impressive shredding, there are plenty of memorable guitar melodies, which is something I really like. Also, Vejlyt ensures that the rhythm guitar is interesting, which I appreciate, since the rhythm guitar is an integral and very important part of rock music. I am glad that Vejlyt acknowledges this. Now, obviously, the guitar is in the spotlight, but Vejlyt does not go all cheap the rest of the instrumentation, and both the drum patterns and bass lines have some substance to them and are allowed to contribute to the overall sound of this album.
In terms of genre, I would say that apart from the mellow guitar anthem that is 'Heads Up' and the guitar-and-piano piece 'Kasja' (both of which are enjoyable to listen to, but the way), Sthenic is an all out progressive metal release with – of course – blazing solos, distorted heavy guitars, groovy rhythms, changes in tempo and time, and dynamic structures. Just check the epic closing track 'Winter'.
If you like shredder guitarists, you should definitely check out this release, but Sthenic should also appeal to rock fans who are not necessarily hooked on all out show-off guitar shredding and who appreciate melody and rhythmically interesting music, too. This definitely is an instrumental metal release that appeals to me: the guitar is in the spotlight, and there is a lot of technical playing, but the rhythm patterns are interesting too, and there is a nice equilibrium between shredding and melody and rhythm.
Track Listing
1. Heads Up
2. Die Today
3. Rain
4. Samurai
5. Meteors
6. My Little Rascal
7. Kajsa
8. Winter
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